Ground Failure Damage to Buildings During Earthquakes

Abstract: Several case histories are examined to evaluate building damage as a function of the foundation type and type and amount of ground displacement. Extensional or vertical ground displacements greater than about 0.1 m across a single fissure or narrow zone are capable of fracturing most slab or perimeter-footing foundations. Displacements of 0.3 m or more of these types have generally caused severe to irrepairable damage. Reinforced concrete perimeter foundations have withstood up to 0.3 m of compressive displacement without fracture of the foundation. Piles that penetrate a zone of horizontal deformation may deform to accommodate displacements of a few tenths of a meter without fracture.